Radial shockwave uses pressure waves from a handheld applicator to treat muscle and fascia across a broader, shallower area than focused shockwave. At Integro Sports + Rehabilitation Chiropractic in Walnut Creek, I use it on its own, alongside focused shockwave, and with my other treatments.
I am certified in Active Release Techniques (ART) and have practiced it since 1999. That is the foundation for how I use radial shockwave.
Pain is often not where the problem starts. A sore knee, shoulder, or heel can be the end of a chain of tight tissue and restricted movement elsewhere in the body. Focused shockwave lets me treat the specific problem area at depth. Radial shockwave lets me work on the surrounding muscle and fascia that are contributing to it, so I'm treating the mechanics and not only the sore spot.
ART tells me where to treat. The manual exam shows which tissues are restricted and how they connect to the problem area, and I use that to decide where to apply radial shockwave. I can also apply radial shockwave to the same tissues I would work with ART.
Some visits are ART only, some are radial shockwave only, and some combine them. It depends on your exam. I will explain what I am doing and why, and I will tell you if I think one technique is enough.
I will assess how you move first, then decide where radial shockwave fits in your visit. The applicator is moved over the areas we identified in your exam. Most people feel pressure, tapping, or mild discomfort, and I adjust intensity to your tolerance.
What's the difference between radial and focused shockwave?
Focused shockwave concentrates energy at a specific depth to treat a specific problem area. Radial shockwave spreads energy over a broader, shallower area, which is why I use it on the tissue around the problem.
Do I need radial shockwave to benefit from my other treatments?
No. It is optional, and I will tell you at your visit whether I think it is worth adding for your case.
Schedule a visit and we will work out together whether radial shockwave fits your situation.
